ZENIT reports that, on 17th July 2024, the Emaús Movement disclosed that multiple women have come forward accusing Abbé Pierre (1912-2007), one of France’s most revered figures, of sexual abuse, including allegations from a minor at the time of the incidents. This revelation has sent shockwaves through France, tarnishing the legacy of a man celebrated for his resistance against the Nazis and his extensive humanitarian work.

The accusations emerged in 2023 when Emaús France received a report from a woman alleging sexual assault by Abbé Pierre. Following this, Emaús launched an internal review in collaboration with Emaús International and the Abbé Pierre Foundation to uncover other potential cases. Caroline De Haas, from the Egaé group specializing in gender equality and violence prevention, led the investigation.

During his later years, Abbé Pierre admitted in an interview to having committed «sins of the flesh,» though he did not explicitly acknowledge the abuses now being reported. This admission, coupled with his controversial views on celibacy and same-sex unions, adds layers of complexity to his legacy.